Asbestos threat in Parliament

There are "significant dangers" to "all persons" in the Palace of Westminster concludes a recent report by Goddard Consulting a London based health and safety consultancy.

There is concern as to whether adequate steps have been taken in response to an earlier 2005 survey and 2006 report that highlighted the risks.

The report highlights the fact that asbestos contaminated shafts are not properly secured and that one in particular is regularly opened to provide ventilation in the kitchen. On opening the kitchen shaft cold air rushed in as if from a wind tunnel. Asbestos including brown asbestos fibres would be dispersed in the kitchen areas if the dust and debris were disturbed in the service shaft in any way.

While asbestos may be left in place safely as long as its condition is monitored and it is not disturbed there remain concerns that asbestos dust may be allowed to circulate within the Palace of Westminster.

Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems we recommend that professional advice be sought.

Back to news